ICAC hears Perrottet text about ‘executing’ Liberal rival after leadership vote

A text message sent by Charles Perrottet shortly before his brother became New South Wales premier has drawn scrutiny at a corruption inquiry into alleged political influence and donations. The message, read to the Independent Commission Against Corruption on Friday, said: “We execute the prick as soon as party room is over.” It followed an exchange between Charles Perrottet and his wife, Anita, about whether former Liberal police minister David Elliott would receive a ministry after Dominic Perrottet’s expected election as premier in October 2021. Anita Perrottet told the inquiry she could not remember the messages or explain what Charles meant by “the Elliott stuff.” Under questioning from counsel assisting, Dr Peggy Dwyer SC, and presiding commissioner Fabian Gleeson, she also said she could not say whether the phrase referred to Elliott. The messages were sent two days before Liberal MPs elected Dominic Perrottet premier after Gladys Berejiklian resigned. In one message, Charles wrote that his brother had thanked him for his support and apologised for “the Elliott stuff.” He later said Dominic should turn off his phone and focus on maintaining party unity before the vote. Elliott was subsequently moved from the police portfolio to transport. He told the inquiry the previous week that property developer Jean Nassif had targeted him because of his opposition to Toplace developments. The commission has also heard intercepted calls in which Nassif allegedly discussed efforts to remove Elliott’s seat of Baulkham Hills. Elliott left politics before the March 2023 election after the seat was abolished and he could not secure enough branch support in Castle Hill. ICAC is investigating alleged prohibited political donations involving Nassif, his company Toplace and people associated with the NSW Liberals between 2020 and 2023. The inquiry has heard allegations that Charles Perrottet, Liberal operatives Christian Ellis and Jeremy Greenwood expected $2 million to be divided among them. Charles Perrottet has previously denied wrongdoing. Anita Perrottet also rejected a suggestion that she could not recall an email about a Toplace development because Charles had written it. She said she was genuinely trying to assist the commission. Dominic Perrottet is not named as a person of interest and has not been accused of wrongdoing. Charles Perrottet was expected to give evidence later on Friday and during the following week, while the inquiry continues.